Catch-up and server-side timeshift allow you to rewind, pause, or rewatch previously aired live TV programs without needing a physical recording box or a traditional MAG set-top box. Modern IPTV applications like TiviMate, IPTV Smarters Pro, XCIPTV, and OTT Navigator support catch-up natively, provided your IPTV service includes archive data on its server.
Unlike standard live streams, catch-up relies on Xtream Codes API metadata to link the Electronic Program Guide (EPG) with archived server recordings.
What You Need Before Starting
- Catch-Up Enabled Provider: Your IPTV service provider must explicitly support catch-up (archive or timeshift) on its server for the channels you wish to rewind.
- Xtream Codes API Connection: Catch-up rarely works using plain M3U links. You must connect your IPTV app using your Server URL, Username, and Password.
- Correct EPG Time Sync: Your app’s guide time must match your local time zone for past programs to line up accurately.
Method 1: Using Catch-Up in TiviMate (Firestick / Android TV)
TiviMate offers the most seamless catch-up experience, integrating past broadcasts directly into the TV guide grid.
1.Look for the Catch-Up Clock Icon:Identify supported channels.
Open the TV Guide in TiviMate. Channels that support catch-up feature a small clock icon or reverse arrow next to the channel logo or program title.
2.Scroll Backwards in the EPG:Navigate past broadcasts.
Highlight the channel in the TV guide and press/hold the Left Directional Button on your remote control to scroll back to past hours or days.
3.Select a Past Program:Initiate playback.
Select any past show displayed in the guide and press OK. TiviMate will stream the recorded program from the provider’s server.
4.Use On-Screen Timeshift Controls:Full-screen controls.
While watching, press OK or Down to bring up the player bar. You can pause, fast-forward, or select Watch from Start to jump to the beginning of the broadcast.
Method 2: Using Catch-Up in IPTV Smarters Pro (Android / iOS / Smart TV)
IPTV Smarters Pro features a dedicated module for archived television programs.
1.Tap ‘Catch Up’ on the Main Menu:Dashboard navigation.
Launch IPTV Smarters Pro and select the dedicated Catch Up icon on the home dashboard.
2.Choose Channel & Archive Date:Select category & channel.
Select your desired category (e.g., Sports or News), select the channel, and choose the specific date you want to view.
3.Select the Recorded Show:Play archived file.
A list of recorded programs for that date will appear. Tap any program title to begin streaming.
Method 3: Using Catch-Up in XCIPTV & OTT Navigator
- XCIPTV: On the main dashboard, tap the Catchup tile. Select the channel and use the calendar view to select past days and time slots.
- OTT Navigator: In the channel list, long-press the Left arrow button to open the archive timeline, or select the program title to open the past broadcast menu.
Troubleshooting Catch-Up & Timeshift Errors
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
| No Clock / Catch-Up Icon Appears | Provider doesn’t support catch-up or logged in via M3U | Ensure you logged in using Xtream Codes API. If the icon is still missing, your provider does not offer catch-up on that specific channel. |
| Guide Shows Wrong Air Times | Incorrect EPG Time Offset | Go to your app’s Settings > EPG and adjust EPG Time Offset (+1, -1, etc.) until past program slots match real-world air times. |
| Stream Buffers or Fails to Load | Server archive processing error or local codec mismatch | Open your IPTV app’s Settings > Playback and switch the Video Decoder from Software to Hardware (or vice versa). |
Developed by iptvhelpcenter.com
